
Diploma of Politics and International Relations
Explore the ideas and issues shaping our world. Develop the skills to analyse complex issues, communicate ideas and think critically as you prepare to progress into the second year of an aligned ANU Bachelor degree.
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Semester intake
Semester 1 (February)
Duration
12 months full-time (2 semesters)
Mode of delivery
In person
Codes
UAC code: 131146 | CRICOS code: 121406E
Entry requirements
ATAR: 70 | IB: 26.75
Fees
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) available
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Progression options
Overview
Whether you want to shape public policy, make sense of global political developments, contribute to international security or build a career in diplomacy and international affairs, the Diploma of Politics and International Relations at ANU is a great place to start.
You’ll explore how political systems work, how global relationships are shaped and how decisions made today can influence what happens next. Along the way, you’ll build the critical thinking, analytical and communication skills to confidently engage with some of the world’s most complex challenges.
As an ANU Pathway Diploma, the program will also help you build the academic skills and confidence for further university study. Successfully complete your diploma with the required GPA, and you’ll be guaranteed admission to your chosen Bachelor program with one year (48 units) of credit:
| Aligned Bachelor Program* | ANU GPA required to progress | Corresponding ANU selection rank |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Asian Studies | 4.0** | 80 |
| Bachelor of International Relations | 4.6 | 85 |
| Bachelor of International Security Studies | 4.6 | 85 |
| Bachelor of Political Science | 4.6 | 85 |
| Bachelor of Public Policy | 4.6 | 85 |
* Upon completing a Pathway Diploma, you may choose to progress to a non-aligned Bachelor program. If you choose this option, you will be eligible for up to one year’s credit. Credit eligibility will be guided by your course selection in the diploma.
**An ANU GPA of 4.0 consists of a pass average in all courses attempted during the Pathway Diploma.
Program structure
Global leaders start here. The Diploma of Politics and International Relations offers degree-level study from day one at ANU, ranked number one in Australia for graduate employability.
You won’t have to figure it out alone. Designed exclusively for Pathway Diploma students, ESEN1001 Academic Skills for University Study will help you strengthen your academic writing, critical thinking and research skills alongside your politics and international relations studies.
You'll be part of a tight-knit community, with a personalised support network to help you to achieve your potential.
Fees and Commonwealth Support Places
The cost of a Pathway Diploma aligns with the cost of the first year of your aligned Bachelor program at ANU. For more information, see student contributions.
If you meet the universal requirements for a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) and the associated HELP schemes, your place in a Pathway Diploma will be CSP-eligible and may defer tuition fees to a HELP loan. For more information, see: HECS-HELP.
For international students: Please see indicative fees under the Admission & Fees tab.

